Summit Family Orthodontics Blog

Due to dietary and genetic changes, our jaw sizes have shrunk over time. According to Science Daily, because of this shift, one in five people have some type of malocclusion or dental crowding. And since our mouths don’t have the space to accommodate all of our pearly whites anymore, it comes as no surprise that dental crowding is one of the most common reasons for orthodontic visits.

What is Malocclusion?
Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of teeth and is most often hereditary. Yet the irregular alignment or crowding of your teeth could have also occurred over an extended period of time. If the alignment of your upper and lower jaws are not balanced, it can lead to broken teeth and even tooth loss.

Malocclusion Classifications – Class I is the most common type of malocclusion. While your bite may seem normal, the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth. – Class II is known as an overbite or retrognathism. It involves a severe overlap of the upper teeth over the bottom jaw. – Class III is when the lower teeth overlap the upper jaw, also known as an underbite or prognathism.

Treating Malocclusion
Orthodontic care is the main treatment available for those with malocclusion including, braces, Invisalign, or even surgery. Orthodontic treatment not only corrects malocclusion, but it also lowers the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

It’s never too late to seek treatment. At Speaks Orthodontics we can help both children and adults achieve the smile of their dreams in a comfortable, friendly, and modern environment. Visit our website to learn more or call us at 303-292-1780. We’re conveniently located just minutes from downtown Denver, LoDo, LoHi, Wheatridge, Edgewater, Lakewood, and Arvada.